Healing by Lavender

With the ever-increasing stresses that are just a part of our everyday life, it is important to find a way to relieve that stress. Everyone has a different way to deal with stress; you just need to find the one that works the best for you personally. Although there are many different remedies available, I want to focus in one just one in particular: Lavender.

Lavender has been known for its potent abilities for centuries. It was even documented that ancient Egypt used lavender during the mummification process. And even the Romans used it to freshen their breath and they put it in their baths. It is even said that the women of the Renaissance time period used dried lavender to fend off the plague. It is still widely used today, granted not for the plague or mummification, but still medicinally used.

One way to feel the healing potential of lavender is by smell. It has been found that when lavender is lightly inhaled, it will stimulate your olfactory receptor cells. These cells carry nerve impulses through your bloodstream, through your lungs, and into your brain-creating a feeling of well-being. Lavender has a great effect on increasing your good and uplifting feelings while squelching the bad. Scientists are currently conducting studies to prove that lavender has anti-convulsive effects. One study has actually shown that the elderly who have trouble sleeping have inhaled diluted lavender and found it just as effective as their prescribed sleep medication-the same with insomniacs.

Another great way to experience the benefits of diluted lavender oil is to rub it into the skin. Many have praised lavender for getting rid of or minimizing their headaches. They just rub the diluted oil right onto their temples. Also, a lot of masseuses use lavender oil during massages because it relaxes the muscles and the senses. Because of this, it is also great to put some lavender in your bath after an intense workout or a long hike. It will help reduce muscle soreness and muscle spasms that are associated with concentrated activity.

If you want a relaxing and entertaining weekend, try visiting a lavender farm. One well-known event is called "Lavender Days" at D. Gary Young's lavender farm in Mona, Utah. For this year (2008), "Lavender Days" is June 27-28. It is the largest lavender farm in North America, so it is guaranteed to be extremely pleasing to the eyes and the senses.

If you are looking for new ways to relax and stay optimistic, try lavender oil. The best way to know for a surety if it really works is to give it a try. Lavender as a mood calmer has been around for ages, and it doesn't look like it is going anywhere anytime soon.

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